Farida Khan, associate professor and chair, Department of Economics, led the session “The Effect of Climate Change on Developing Countries” at the Advanced Climate Policy Camp June 6-8 at American University in Washington, D.C.
Khan presented from the vantage point of Bangladesh and represented the Group of 77 within the United Nations. The international track of the camp also featured sessions from organizations in China, Mexico and Canada.
Bangladesh has led international efforts among developing countries in climate change because of the country’s experience in representing least developed nations in international organization. With one of the highest population densities in the world, it is estimated that 10 percent of the country would flood with a one meter rise in sea levels.
“The biggest lesson I have learned from this invaluable experience is to realize the personal stories and issues different groups experience with regards to climate change and to learn how to communicate and share their stories with the rest of the world,” wrote Aditya Krishnaswamy, an attendee at the session. “Once we show compassion towards all cultures, only then can we work towards true solutions that allow everyone to fairly contribute and work towards saving our climate. It is up to all of us to empower those around us and actively work towards strong and equitable policies to protect our future.”
The policy camp, held annually since 2017, is intended to prepare climate change advocates how to answer the policy questions that arise in their work. The camp was divided into a domestic track and an international track. This summer the camp simulated what would happen if the United States were to impose a carbon border tax with the endorsement of the World Trade Organization.
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